Donald Albert Buck's Obituary
Donald A. Buck
Pilots are just plane people with a special air about them.
Don was born on August 17, 1925 in Tacoma, Washington. He died on his birthday of complications from Parkinson's disease. He is survived by his long time love and companion, Ruth Mulkey; his daughter, Lynn Kaman; grandchildren, Aaron Kaman, Holly Corley, and Kim Buck; great grandchildren, Emily, Brendan, Aubrey, and Lindsey Kaman and Jayce Corley; his sister and brother, Lila Mae Rehn and David Buck. He is also survived by Ruth's family, Rich Mulkey; Kathy McVay and Barbara Steed; grandchildren, Gary McVay, Lori Walker, and Michael and Kevin Souza; great grandchildren, Garrett and Bryce Walker and Aaron Souza. His two sons, Doug and Larry and brother, Bob, preceded him in death.
Don was proud of his education and long time affiliation with the Tacoma School District #10, beginning at Horace Mann Elementary and graduating from Lincoln High School. Later, he was hired by the district as a custodian. He worked his way up to Chief Custodian and ultimately became the Director of Maintenance and Operations. He retired after 44 years of service to the district and its students and staff.
He had his private pilot's license and until recently owned a share in the 10 Musketeers, one of the oldest flying clubs in the Tacoma area. He enjoyed golfing and hit a hole-in-one at Highland Hill Golf Course. He was a member of the Masons, proud to follow in his father's footsteps. He spoke with pride of his English heritage. He often told tales of his childhood in Spanaway, spending many hours with his grandma and grandpa Buck and exploring in the woods. Before the Parkinson's disease overtook his body, he walked five miles every day.
A special thank you to the compassionate caregivers at Hearthside Manor and Franciscan Hospice for their loving care of Don and support to our family. Remembrances may be made to Franciscan Hospice c/o Franciscan Foundation, PO Box 1502, Tacoma, WA 98401.
Join us for a memorial celebration of his life on Tuesday, August 26, 2 p.m. at Fircrest Golf Club, 1500 Regents Blvd, Fircrest, Washington.
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